First Term Updates – Cote d’Ivoire/Senegal

This morning, although we are still hearing gunfire in the distance, all is quiet here at ICA. We are told that the military from Abidjan is on it’s way north to stop the ‘rebel resistance’, so whatever action is going to happen is still to come.

A positive encouragement to us all: the local military commander brought his three teenage daughters here to ICA last night for protection. He doesn’t want them on the military compound, and must think we are safe here. You would not believe how uplifting that has been to us who are responsible for the safety of these missionary children.

“We have spent a great deal of time today listening to news reports, contacting friends for information and trying to understand what is happening. At this point the situation seems more clear but we still do not know exactly what has happened except here on our campus. There have been reports of government officials killed in Abidjan and the suspicion that this might be an organized attempt to take over the government. 

“Classes met as normal today even though some people were missing from school since they were unable to get to the campus. We are also still dealing with the reality of Dave Golding’s sudden death which has affected everyone deeply. The sports teams have seen their trip to Abidjan canceled because of the events but we plan to have this scheduled again as possible.

“At this time we have news reports and direct contacts in Bouake who describe this town as being controlled by the rebel military personnel. The government is working to bring order to the situation but there is no traffic in town and businesses remain closed. None of the shooting has been near ICA and we have heard very few shots this afternoon. We have been in contact with missionaries in town who are remaining in their homes following recommendations from the different embassies. 

“All ICA staff and students are on campus, along with some people who were visiting and some day students. The students know what is happening and understand the reasons for increased security on campus and at the front gate. The ICA administration has examined what can be done to increase security and has put in place different measures to do everything possible to make this a safe place. We also recognize that ultimately our protection comes from God and we ask for your prayers. We desire to act like God’s children even in times of stress. 

“The expressions of concern and support from all over the world have been a big encouragement to everyone. We feel a part of a larger family that is supporting us during these times of crisis. May God bless you as you live and work for Him where you are each day.”

This morning, around 10:00, one of our dorm dads (at the dorm where we often cover for days off) and closest friends, Dave Golding, went home to be with His Savior. He was jogging on the track when he collapsed. Even though CPR and other life-saving procedures were performed, we are told he died immediately.

We don’t grieve for Dave; we know where he is. But we grieve with his wife Denise, and his children, Josh (14), Mark (12), and Nicole (11). 

This comes as a shock to us all because Dave was only 42 and the picture of health. He was often held up as the most-physically fit man on campus. Because he had been experiencing some chest pains, he recently underwent all the heart tests and was given a clean bill of health and permission to exercise. I’ve heard some of our students say things like ‘Wow, if it could happen to him, it could happen to my dad.’ I must admit that I’ve thought the same thing.

Please pray for us again. We cherish your prayers. Pray for Denise and her family as they make decisions about their future without Dave.